Managerial uncertainty lingers over Cobh ahead of playoff

Ramblers face Treaty in the First Division playoffs on Friday.

ABSENT: Cobh Ramblers manager Mick McDermott during the SSE Airtricity Men's First Division match against Finn Harps. Pic: Michael P Ryan/Sportsfile

Sat, 18 Oct, 2025 - 12:42

John Fallon

Uncertainty surrounds the future of Cobh Ramblers manager Mick McDermott ahead of their First Division playoff semi-final at Treaty United on Friday.

McDermott led the Rams to their highest finish for 18 years of runners-up in his first season but was absent from Friday’s final game against champions Dundalk.

Simultaneous to the 2-1 defeat at St Colman’s Park, the manager posted a cryptic message on his Instagram account.

“Football is pure and simple - about players, fans, relationships and honesty,” it read, accompanied by a picture in his office with belongings.

“It’s not a play thing or PlayStation. To the future!”

Cobh were acquired by US-based Digital Athlete group in July. They assumed a 90% stake after the initial investment group who’d taken the club out fan ownership this time last year, FC32, encountered financial difficulties.

McDermott’s assistant Richie Holland took charge of the team on Friday. He couldn’t confirm if the Belfast man would be at the Markets Field on Friday but did say he’d be leaning on his expertise.

Cobh must overcome Treaty over two legs, the second leg in Cork on Tuesday week, to face the winner of either UCD or Bray in the First Division two-leg playoff.

Whichever team emerges from that quartet will meet the ninth-placed Premier Division team in a one-off shootout for a spot in the 2026 top-flight.